KLANG—
The tremulous sound of a gong echoed from the distant gate, followed swiftly by solemn music drawing ever closer. The Emperor of Da Qi had truly arrived.
Before Li Huowang could react, the official beside him, who had been sipping from a dish of vinegar, instantly turned deathly pale. He sprang up and dashed frantically toward the gate.
When Li Huowang also stepped into the outer courtyard, he saw everyone—including the so-called Elder Qin and Lord Liang—kneeling on the ground.
The music grew nearer, accompanied by a thick, choking fragrance. The circular roof of the Son of Heaven's imperial carriage slowly appeared over the tall walls. As the honor guard approached, four pillars came into view, painted with red cloud-dragons and wrapped in dark cyan satin ribbons. Between these pillars, curtains bearing a pattern of black cloud-dragons and feathers completely shrouded the wooden tower within.
